This Stunning Custom Ford F100 Turns Car Guys into Truck Guys

While trucks are the most popular vehicle in almost every state in the nation by models sold, they mostly abide by the rules of "function over form." In most people's opinion, great trucks are reliable, tough workers that get beat up and used up. The epitome of practicality, they will haul, tow, pull and push anything you throw at them.

In stark contrast to that mentality is this stunning 1956 Ford F1oo that is going to be auctioned off at the Mecum 2012 Dallas auction this Saturday. The Mecum auction is already under way, but we had to point out this jewel that will surely be a show stopper on Saturday's finale. Here's why we think it's so amazing.

First off, this particular Ford F100 won the Goodguys' Truck of the Year award in 2010, and if we've learned anything, it's that the Goodguys have very good taste. For the uninitiated classic truck fan, this ride might only appear to be mildly interesting, but it is oh so much more.

The whole body is riding on a Roadster Shop chassis with obligatory Air Ride suspension. However, it's not just stock body work on top. Among the modifications are a lowered windshield, relocated front wheel openings, custom roll pans on the front and rear, and a hand-made aluminum bed.

The good looking body is accented by Billet Specialties wheels covered in BF Goodrich rubber that hides the large 13-inch Wilwood brakes on all four corners.

It's great to have the look, but even better when you can back it up with some serious power. That task is left to the massive fuel-injected 509ci big block Chevy engine (in a Ford? Scandal!) that kicks out a stout 540 hp. Dump all that power through a 5-speed Tremec TKO600 tranny, combined with truck bed's low weight, and you can quickly kiss those rear tires a fiery goodbye.

The sweetness carries on to the interior with a classy looking black and tan leather treatment on the seats, dash and steering wheel. It's all custom, including the dash and gauges, just to give it that perfect matching touch.

Even the wood in the truck's bed, arguably the most utilitarian and boring of work surfaces, is adorned in beautiful wood and chrome that wouldn't look out of place on a Rolls-Royce Drophead or vintage Chris Craft runabout.

We haven't seen that many custom trucks this well done, and it's unlikely that we will see many more. Keep your eyes out for this '56 Ford F100 as it crosses the auction block on Saturday at around 12:30pm EST. You can catch coverage of the Mecum 2012 Dallas on the Velocity Channel for all the live auction action. We won't miss it.